Mission San Miguel – The 16th California Mission

Mission San Miguel

I’ve been to many California Missions, since I studied them in the 4th grade. However, this was my first visit to historic Mission San Miguel.

The Mission is close to the 101 Freeway just north of Paso Robles and a couple hours south of Monterey. It’s an easy road trip stop that is rich in California history.

Parking is free and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds. A donation is requested for a self-guided museum tour, but there is a lot to see without making a donation.

Parts of the Mission have been restored, and it is like taking a step back in history. The adobe buildings, tile work and decorative woodwork are beautiful. I especially liked the adobe oven and other outdoor displays, since they show how people took care of their basic needs at the Mission.

Photo Gallery

Masses are held daily, some in English and some in Spanish. This is still a functioning church, even though it is not as active as it was years ago. The parish also has special events for the community, including the Day of The Dead (Dia De Los Muertos) alters that were set up, when I was there.

The Missions were an integral part of the early days of California that include Spaniards and indigenous people. All of this history is not pretty, but it's always beneficial to study the past and progress positively into the future.

The San Miguel Mission is a good place to visit, if you are staying in San Miguel or Paso Robles or if you are just driving through.